French forward Karim Benzema broke a 44-year-old Ballon d’Or record on Sunday, November 20, after missing the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
The last time a Ballon d’Or winner missed the prestigious tournament was in 1978. English striker Kevin Keegan won the coveted trophy that year but missed the high profile competition due to a serious back injury.
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Karim on the other hand, will miss the 22nd edition of the event after picking up a thigh injury and is expected to be sidelined for a period of three weeks.
His absence was confirmed by the French manager on Saturday, November 19, a day before the start of the tournament.
“I am extremely sad for Karim who made this World Cup a major goal. Despite this new setback, I have full confidence in my group.
"We will do everything to meet the immense challenge that awaits us," read a statement from Didier Deschamps.
Benzema joins a number of Les Bleus stars who have been ruled out of the World Cup because of injuries.
Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba, N’golo Kante and RB Leipzig top scorer Christopher Nkunku will also not feature in this year’s event.
Other superstars who will not represent their nations in Qatar include Senegalese forward Sadio Mane and England wing-back Reece James.
Benzema thanked his fans for the support they accorded him during the difficult period.
“In my life I never give up but tonight I have to think about the team like I always do so the reason tells me to leave my place to someone who can help our team make a good world cup.
"Thank you for all your messages of support,” ended the Real Madrid goal machine.
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